YOUNG leaders must measure their success by how far they help others progress, rather than personal achievements or titles, Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said today.
He said young people should take responsibility for addressing societal challenges now, using their knowledge, skills and influence to create opportunities for others instead of waiting for formal leadership positions.
“You may mentor a younger student. You may create someone’s first job. You may solve a problem that has been ignored for too long,” he said when delivering the keynote address at iFUTURE 2026 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
“Your success becomes truly meaningful when it opens doors for others.”
Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, was addressing more than 1,200 student leaders from 60 countries at the summit themed “Values, Vision and Responsibility: Leadership in the Global Era”.
He said leadership in an era of rapid technological change required three foundations — values, vision and responsibility — particularly as young people confront artificial intelligence, rising living costs, employment competition and climate challenges.
On values, he cautioned that technological capabilities must be matched by sound judgement, integrity and accountability.
“When an algorithm gives you an answer, question it. When a platform gives you influence, ask how your words will affect others,” he said.
“Technology can expand your capability. Only values can direct it.”
He also urged young people to remain adaptable as technology reshapes careers and creates new opportunities, stressing that innovation should be judged by its contribution to society rather than its novelty.
“Whether you are creating an AI application, a research breakthrough, a business or a creative work, ask one question: who does this help?” he said.
Fadillah highlighted technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as an important part of national development, saying those who build, operate and maintain technology deserved the same respect as those who conceive new ideas.
He invoked Malaysia’s “Malaysia Boleh” spirit, recalling how the country pursued ambitious goals, including developing its national car and constructing the Petronas Twin Towers.
“Now that torch is in your hands. What will your ‘Malaysia Boleh’ be?” he asked.
Fadillah also stressed that resilience meant learning from setbacks, adapting strategies and seeking support rather than trying to overcome every challenge alone.
He called for greater international cooperation to tackle climate change, food security, public health and the responsible use of technology, noting that such challenges transcended national borders.
Urging participants to turn the summit’s discussions into practical action, he challenged each to identify one problem they could help solve, begin one concrete initiative and connect with someone who could contribute to the effort.
“A summit can inspire us. But it is action that gives inspiration lasting value. You are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of today.” he said - October 12, 2026